"The Red Sox, according to a source, maintain equal or greater interest in Cubs right-hander Matt Garza, who is under club control through next season," writes Ken Rosenthal.

The extra year on Garza's contract would almost certainly make his asking price higher than any deal for Dempster who is set to be a free agent at season's end.

Garza's numbers have been relatively unimpressive, at least compared to Dempster, who is in the midst of a 33-inning scoreless streak. Garza is just 5-7 with a 4.02 ERA in 17 starts this season. His WHIP, though, is a career-low 1.172 at the moment.

The Red Sox would certainly know what they would be getting if they were to acquire Garza.

The 28-year-old is battle-tested in the AL East after spending three years with Tampa Bay. Garza went 34-31 with a 3.86 ERA in his three seasons with the Rays.

Bringing Garza to Boston would also ensure that the Sox wouldn't have to face him, which likely be a welcomed idea for Red Sox hitters. He's 7-4 with a 3.73 ERA in 19 career appearances versus Boston. Just as impressive is his 5-3 career record at Fenway Park.

"I'd love to stay here, but if that's not in [Theo Epstein's] plans, then so be it," Garza said last month. "I just want to keep playing," Garza reportedly said. "The AL East doesn't scare me a bit. Everywhere I go, it's a blast."

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